Spatial patterns, factors, and ethnic differences: A study on ethnic minority villages in Yunnan, China

Abstract

This paper takes ethnic minority villages in Yunnan province of China, which have significant characteristics of multi-ethnic integration, as the research object. Through various spatial statistical analysis methods, we analyzed the overall distribution characteristics of ethnic villages in Yunnan, the distribution difference among various ethnic groups, and the influencing factors of the distribution pattern. It was found that: (1) The ethnic minority villages in Yunnan generally exhibit a kernel density characteristic of “three concentrated areas and multiple scattered points” and distribution characteristic of “hot spots in the west and cold spots in the east”. Each ethnic group has a relatively concentrated region, presenting significant ethnic autocorrelation. (2) The differences in the relationship between villages and landscape among various ethnic groups have given rise to a unique three-dimensional distribution pattern, which is relate to ethnic origin and livelihood culture. Meanwhile, Han traditional villages tend to occupy areas with relatively better geographical conditions. (3) Natural factors, such as topographic relief, the distance between ethnic villages and rivers, and elevation, have a significant impact on the distribution of ethnic villages in Yunnan. Meanwhile, test results of social and human factors, including the distance from central cities, per capita GDP, and the gross annual output values of primary industry, indicate that the development of social economy and the promotion of urbanization pose challenges to the preservation of ethnic villages.